In recent years there has been a trend to give animal gifts such as pigs, llamas, alpaca's, goats, sheep, cows and even worms to the developing world. Others have pioneered animal gifts which enable you to adopt or sponsor an animal such as a monkey, bear, dolphin or donkey.

The rhinoceros or rhino is one of the world`s most magnificent creatures with its almost Prehistoric appearance. Sadly the five species of rhino are also among the group of animals most threatened with extinction (endangered) - but you can help them by adopting a rhino.

Adopting an animal such as an elephant has never been easier, and it can now be done quickly and easily online as a gift, or just for yourself.

Often the solutions to poverty are quite surprising! A water buffalo and calf is a prime example. Sara Makram lives in a very poor community in Egypt. She has six daughters to care for and the water buffalo she was able to buy through a loan from Christian Aid partner COC Bless, has made an amazing difference to her family.